What are some types of snow melters?

A:

Quick Answer

The main types of snow melters are the ones that contain sodium chloride, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride, calcium chloride and glycols as their main components. Snow melters that contain calcium chloride are very popular, but they may be harmful to human health. They also produce salt stains and are more expensive than rock salt.

Keep Learning

Sodium chloride is regular rock salt, the most common type of snow melter. An advantage of this snow melter is that it is much cheaper than other snow melters. A disadvantage of salt is that it sticks to shoes and ends up inside buildings and vehicles. In addition, this type of snow melter is harmful to the environment.

Snow melt products that contain potassium chloride aren't as efficient as other products and aren't suitable for areas that get a lot of ice. In addition, these products are quite expensive. However, these melters are safer for the environment than some other types.

Magnesium chloride-based ice melters are a little more expensive than rock salt, but they produce better results. In addition, they are more environmentally friendly than a lot of other products. The only disadvantage of these melters is that they aren't safe for pets and children.

Ice melt products that contain glycols and similar compounds are usually not corrosive, and they don't produce stains. In addition, they work somewhat faster than other products.